New OnStar Digital Hardware Offers Improved Voice Recognition, Continuous Digit Dialing
Continuous hardware improvements in 6 generations over 8 years
OnStar now offers digital and analog coverage as it unveiled its latest generation of hardware today. OnStar has also upgraded its embedded hands-free voice recognition capabilities by collaborating with IBM to enhance its ViaVoice technology, allowing faster, more intuitive continuous digit dialing and improved voice recognition accuracy. OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the industry-leading provider of in-vehicle safety and security services.
"We're excited to introduce our sixth generation of hardware in less than eight years, and to do so by aligning today's rapidly changing consumer electronics product cycle with the automotive product lifecycle," said Chet Huber, president of OnStar.
OnStar's new hardware incorporates 3G CDMA2000 1X wireless technology, taking advantage of two digital frequencies and one analog frequency, depending on network availability. CDMA2000, a digital wireless technology commercially developed by QUALCOMM, is the preferred standard for sound quality, high-speed transmission of voice and data, and can process more calls than analog networks.
"OnStar's move to 3G CDMA is the result of a partnership and shared vision that telematics enhances the safety, security and available services for drivers and passengers of OnStar-equipped vehicles," said Dr. Paul E. Jacobs, president of QUALCOMM's Wireless and Internet Group. "QUALCOMM is proud that OnStar has selected our chips and technology to turn the promise of digital wireless into reality for their subscribers."
When OnStar launched service in the fall of 1996, analog was the ubiquitous network that enabled the delivery of in-vehicle safety and security services nationwide. Today, OnStar's coverage over the wireless network is widespread and reliable and OnStar's hands-free, voice-activated 3-watt wireless phone, with exterior mounted antenna, provides superior reception. By offering access to services on both digital and analog networks OnStar subscribers have the broadest possible high-speed wireless service available.
Gen 6 hardware will begin to roll out this spring in the General Motors fleet, starting on select midsize SUVs, and will continue on a mix of all SUVs, pickups and cars.